Georgetown High School

Agenda Understanding costs pertaining to higher education Identifying financial resources and assistance Submitting the Federal Application for Student Aid (FAFSA)

Post-secondary education comes in a variety of forms from short term certificate programs to advanced graduate studies. The costs involved vary greatly so the more you know about these costs, the more likely you will be able to create a financial plan that works best for you.

Cost of Attendance Cost of attendance is the amount a student would reasonably spend to obtain higher education based on one year of full time attendance at a particular institution of higher learning. Expenses include: Tuition and Fees Books Room & Board Travel Personal Expenses

Residency In-state Out of State Public institutions are directly supported by state tax payers Students will pay higher tuition States may have reciprocal agreements with bordering states Some reciprocal agreements are based on the availability of specific programs of study

Private Schools Tuition tends to be higher than for public schools Generally charge the same tuition rate regardless of student residency Often provide large scholarships

Housing Some institutions require freshman to live on campus. On-campus housing is not available at all institutions of higher learning. A separate application is required. Students should apply for housing early. Off campus living may reduce financial aid eligibility.

Cost Comparison

Individuals and families are expected to pay for post- secondary education. However, the reality is that many simply cannot afford to cover the cost. Personal and family contributions are generally covered through savings and/or employment. It is up to students to explore other financial sources available to offset the actual cost of post-secondary education.

Dual Credit Coursework Early College Start (Austin Community College) Scores of 3 or higher on Advanced Placement (AP) exams Articulated course work Access to view the Texas Common Course Numbering Systemwww.tccns.org

Scholarships Scholarships are sums of money that organizations give to students based on merit and/or financial need. The competition for scholarships can be intense. Students increase their chances by conducting organized scholarship searches. Sources: Institutions of Higher Learning Local Scholarships Personal or family affiliations National Scholarship Searches

Other Financial Resources Employment Parent/Private loans Federal Student Aid

Financing Plan Cost of Attendance20,000 Personal/Family Contribution2,000 Scholarships5,000 Federal/State Grants6,000 Federal Work Study2,000 Federal Student Loans5,000 Parent/Private Student Loans0 Total Unmet Need0

All students are encouraged to submit a Federal Application for Student Aid. Scholarship programs may require this and personal circumstances can change. Adventures in Education is a great resource for learning about financial planning and the FAFSA application process. The following video is available at

FAFSA Events GHS Counselor Presentations Paying for College Parent Night FAFSA Saturday: FEB 7, 2015 Applications may be submitted after January 1 The priority deadline is generally March 1 SAR Reports are received by students Award Letters are reviewed Payment is made for educational expenses

CareerCruising.com

Resources GHS Counselors GHS College and Career Center Adventures in Education CareerCruising.com Institutions of Higher Learning